Bradenton Christian School to honor Bouwer family with field dedication

BRADENTON -- Bradenton Christian School will honor its founding family with a special coin toss before Friday's football game.

The new gate that leads to Bradenton Christian School's beautifully renovated sports fields proudly states: "Home of the Panthers and Bouwer Athletic Complex." The sign is a tribute to Don and Marilyn Bouwer, two of the founders whose faith and spirit formed Bradenton Christian School 55 years ago.

Through the following 5 1/2 decades, the couple has maintained their status as two of the staunchest supporters of BCS students, staff and sports teams, according to officials.

All five of Bouwer children attended BCS, and the Bouwer name has remained a constant presence at the school -- thanks to grandchildren and the fact that their daughter-in-law, Sandy Bouwer, has been a long-time physical education teacher.

To honor the Bouwers' contributions to BCS and specifically to BCS athletics, Don Bouwer will toss the coin prior to the kickoff of Friday's Panthers' home football game against Shorecrest Preparatory School at 7:30pm. The school will also be honoring all veterans in honor of 9/11.

-- Meghin Delaney

This story was originally published September 9, 2015 at 6:32 PM with the headline "Bradenton Christian School to honor Bouwer family with field dedication ."